"Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15 NIV.
Our sons, Kirk and Jordan, played on many sports teams growing up. There is hardly a sport they did not play, but there were a lot of football games. As parents, there was a lot of time sitting on the sidelines to observe the teams’ dynamics. There were always a few kids with natural athleticism, the rock stars. Still, the majority of the group were kids who showed up at every practice and every game committed to their role, regardless of how much playtime they received. When called upon, they played with all their ability. After the game, these would be the players who collected the equipment off the field and cart it into the locker room. They may not have been the stars, but they were the backbone of the team.
Like the unsung heroes on the football team, as Christian's God wants us to show up ready to work. We may not be the rock stars, but there is a place for us on the team. There is no shame in being a second or even third-string; what is essential is when called upon, we know the playbook. We need to be prepared to play at any time and under any situation. The Bible is our playbook, in it is everything we know, and in it, we obtain an understanding of our Coach. In prayer and discernment, we listen for the voice of our Coach. When a play is unclear, we ask for clarity. When we go onto the field, we need to know the plays. What is my position? What are the Xs and Os of this play? The only way we know is if we have studied the playbook, practiced, and listened to the Coach.
God, we thank you for the tremendous opportunity to be unashamed workers for you in the world. Help us as we study your word to discern your will for us. In our prayers, help us to pause and listen for your voice. We ask for the strength to meet the challenges of this day. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings!
Pastor Tim
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